Man United set sights on marquee number nine to blow Man City away – sources

Man United are desperate to add a marquee striker to their squad this summer, sources have told Football Insider.

A well-placed source has revealed that club chiefs are aware an “established” number nine is needed to close the gap to treble-winning rivals Man City.

As such, Man United are weighing up the merits of several potential targets with the 2023-24 season on the horizon.

Football Insider revealed on Monday (26 June) that Man United are pessimistic about the prospect of landing top target Harry Kane.

The Tottenham hitman notched 30 goals and three assists in 38 Premier League games during the 2022-23 campaign – a tally bettered only by Man City’s Erling Haaland.

But negotiations for Kane have gone quiet and German giants Bayern Munich have now reportedly entered the race with an opening bid worth £60million plus add-ons.

Man United are now exploring moves alternative targets with the summer window heating up.

Football Insider revealed on Tuesday (27 June) that the Red Devils have made contact with Eintracht Frankfurt over a potential deal for striker Randal Kolo Muani.

A well-placed source has told Football Insider that the France international could cost in the region of £85million.

Kolo Muani notched 23 goals and 17 assists in 46 appearances across all competitions for Frankfurt last season.

Meanwhile, Atalanta sensation Rasmus Hojlund remains on Man United’s shortlist – and is seen as an interesting alternative to top-bracket talents like Kane and Victor Osimhen.

Football Insider revealed on Monday (26 June) that the Italian outfit are holding out for £60million for Hojlund.

French forward Randal Kolo Muani

Marcus Rashford (30 goals) was the top marksman for Man United as they finished third last term.

Anthony Martial has been widely tipped to leave the club alongside Wout Weghorst – who will return to parent club Burnley.

In other news, Man United offering cash-plus-players Rice deal.